May 1930 saw the enforcement of the recommendations of the Simon Commission, which escalated the bitterness against the British Rule in India. To decide upon the future course of action, the top brass of the Indian leadership held the first Round Table Conference at London, in November 1930. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar and diwan Bahadur Srinivasan of Madras were chosen as representatives of the untouchables. This was a historic moment, as it was the first time they had been provided with an independent platform to put forth issues concerning untouchables.

Dr. Ambedkar delivered a dynamic and memorable speech on the issues of Dalits and Untouchables, which made a telling impact on the delegates at the conference. The first Round Table conference was inaugurated by the king George - V on Nov 12, 1930. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar can be seen, first in the left row.